Stamp Hike Takes Effect On Sunday

Today is the last day to use up those 20-cent postage stamps. Beginning Sunday at 12:01 a.m., first-class stamps will cost 22 cents.

The rate increase is the first in three years, said U.S. Postal Service spokesman Bob Hoobing. The cost of mailing postcards also will increase, from 13 cents to 14 cents.

Although the new postal rates take effect Sunday, regular mail delivery will be delayed until Tuesday because of the Presidents` Day holiday Monday.

Hoobing said most people accept the new rates as a ``fairly moderate increase in view of everyone`s cost going up.`` He said the hike represents a small percentage compared to increases in the cost of living.

To ensure an adequate supply of stamps following the increase, the Postal Service is bringing back generic stamps -- this time with a letter ``D.`` Letters ``A`` through ``C`` were used for the same purpose after previous rate increases, the last of which raised first-class letter rates from 18 to 20 cents in November 1981.

There also will be a 22-cent commemorative stamp honoring composer Jerome Kern.